The definition of formal analysis is describing was is seen not by simply looking at a structure or painting but by interpreting and evaluating it. Interpreting a piece of art can mean looking at the color, line, and scale of the picture. This can be done by asking questions about the piece. What particular colors were used? How was the quality of the brush/pencil work? Is this piece to scale? Why or Why not? Through formal analysis, you can get the true meaning of the piece and really appreciate it.

There are also a few components of formal analysis. One of them is formal properties. Formal Properties as discussed above are the physical aspect if the work. This includes the color, line, scale, material, illusions, and mimesis. A second component is a subject matter which is the prime focus of the work. But we should also consider how every item contributes to the whole story of the piece. A third component of formal analysis is historical context. When interpreting work, it is critical to consider the time period it was created in. The time period may have influenced the artist.

In the small excerpt we were given, the authors used formal analysis to dissect an ad for Dior handbags. It is shown that a well-dressed, pretty, and young woman is holding the handbag. The background shows many large buildings. The colors are whites, grays, and blacks. The bag is just a simple leather rectangle. However, the fact that they used a famous, gorgeous young woman over an area that looks quite rich, the bag is quite appealing.